Bula Si’a! My name is Tsuyoshi Ishizawa, and I am a JICA Volunteer stationed in the Clinical Governance Unit at Labasa Hospital. With 14 years of experience as a Clinical Laboratory Technologist specializing in infectious diseases and infection control, I am eager to share my journey from the snowy landscapes of Yamagata, Japan, to the sunny shores of Fiji.
In my current role, I am responsible for introducing and implementing Japanese methodologies such as 5S, KAIZEN, and Total Quality Management (TQM) within healthcare settings. These concepts, originally derived from the renowned Toyota Production System, are being tailored to improve healthcare quality in Fiji. The 5S principles—Sort, Set, Shine, Standardize, Sustain—play a crucial role in creating an organized environment where irregularities can be quickly spotted and addressed.
These foundational principles support continuous improvement (KAIZEN) and contribute to the overarching goal of achieving total quality management in healthcare. My duties encompass conducting regular ward rounds to assess compliance with the 5S framework, overseeing the medical supply inventory, and leading workshops to enhance the capabilities and understanding of the staff regarding these methodologies.
During practical demonstrations, I emphasize how simple actions like labeling and color-coding medications can drastically minimize errors and enhance patient safety. I am consistently inspired by the commitment and enthusiasm exhibited by Fiji’s healthcare professionals; their dedication fuels my passion for this work each day.
While the implementation of the 5S methodology might seem minor on the surface, its impact on improving healthcare quality and safety in Fiji is significant. These initiatives are crucial in the collective effort to enhance service delivery in the region, heralding a promising future for healthcare in Fiji. The strides we are making today symbolize an essential movement toward a more efficient and safe healthcare environment for all.